James Robert Kelly emphasizes enrollment, student pathways if confirmed to UOG Board of Regents

James Robert Kelly told the Committee on Education, Libraries and Public Broadcasting on April 23 that his background in secondary education and college admissions would help the University of Guam increase enrollment and strengthen student pathways.

Mr. Mendiola read a letter from University of Guam President Dr. Anita Borja Henriquez endorsing Kelly’s appointment and noting his experience working with high-school students and families. Kelly, who is assistant head of school at Saint John’s School, said he has worked for 30 years in college admissions and helped create Guam’s college fair.

During questioning, senators discussed the Board of Regents’ policy-setting role and asked Kelly about university initiatives to capture regional and stateside students, endowment management and the university’s new vision for 2025–2030. Kelly said the board is primarily advisory and policy-focused, and he highlighted existing exchange and recruitment programs the university already uses.

Senators thanked Kelly for accepting the nomination and said the appointment would be taken up in the upcoming May session. The transcript does not record a confirmation vote; the committee accepted written testimony for seven days.